Different Types Of Weddings

Different Types Of Weddings

Kay Brown

Whilst there are many interpretations of a wedding, generally speaking they are still a religious or legal union between two individuals. Our concept of a marriage has seen many adjustments over the last few years. Whatever the background and history to marriage, it is still a legal union between two people; until the marriage certificate is signed by the bride, groom and witnesses, the ceremony is not finalized. The names bridegroom and bride extend around the world; after the ceremony they become a wife and a husband, respectively.

Weddings in a Church

As soon as you look outside of your own race, religious and social group, the wedding tradition can become very complex. Although it may seem like the world has turned away from the Christian religion generally, it has not stopped the popularity of a Church ceremony. These ceremonies are usually referred to as white weddings and are considered formal or semi-formal in the United Kingdom, Ireland and United States, as well as some other Commonwealth countries.

Twin Ceremonies

Although unusual a double marriage is a where two couples are married at the same time; this type of ceremony is often organized by a person that has a sibling that wants to get married with them at the same time, having a double ceremony.

Marriages in Another Country

Marriages in foreign countries are called destination weddings where guests can arrive either just before the ceremony or actually travel with the couple; destination weddings automatically conjure up exotic countries but it could just as easily be a themed wedding in Las Vegas to qualify for that title.

Weekend Break Weddings

Whilst it is quite normal for the Irish to have three day weddings, more couples are taking the hint and having theirs over a weekend which gives them more time to enjoy the occasion. To cater for this expanding market a number of companies can arrange special themed occasions that incorporate anything from golf to surfing. For many people that have outdoor interests this can be a lot of fun and the guests can stay for the entire weekend with them to extend the occasion and have a lot more fun.

Online Marriages

An online wedding is conducted on the internet which can resemble a normal ceremony. Internet companies specializing in this type of ceremony are there to help you with your marriage. Marriages that are broadcast live online are also referred to as online weddings and friends can view it from anywhere in the world.

Town Hall Services

Local civil authority services are called civil weddings as they do not take place in a church and must be performed by a locally elected or appointed official. Although it may sound clinical, civil ceremonies usually make no reference to God. Often, this type of service will take place in a judge's chambers, town or city hall or any other specially designated place.

If you live in a Christian country then you will recognize many of these wedding traditions but there are many more types of wedding ceremonies available around the world. Some would be considered extremely bizarre by our own practices.